Folkestone Harbour

Folkestone Harbour and its seafront form a historic working harbour layered with coastal character and identity. Once much-loved but long in decline, the area has been the focus of heritage-led regeneration since 2012. We were appointed as Heritage Consultants to help shape this transformation — from the early masterplan by Farrells through later phases by ACME and Aisfor — ensuring the town’s maritime and architectural heritage remained integral to its renewal.

Client

Folkestone Harbour Development Company

Location

Kent

Designation

Multiple

Year

2012 – Present

What we did

Our early work comprised a broad Heritage Assessment of the site and surroundings — including the listed Harbour Viaduct and Swing Bridge, and the Folkestone Leas and Bayle Conservation Area. These studies informed the emerging masterplan and helped build confidence among the design team, the Council and Historic England. We provided heritage advice throughout the planning process, including the Built Heritage chapter of the Environmental Statement and ongoing support for reserved matters applications. As the scheme evolved, we ensured that development responded sensitively to its context — from material choices to key views — and embedded heritage at every stage of design.

the outcome

Our long-term involvement has helped ensure heritage remains central to Folkestone’s regeneration. Plot B1 is now complete, marking the first realised step in a wider coastal masterplan that balances historic identity with contemporary life. The result is a place that celebrates the spirit and character of the harbour while creating a vibrant, enduring seafront for residents, visitors and the wider community.

services we provided

Heritage Consultancy

Heritage and significance appraisals

Feasibility and constraint studies

Heritage statements

Design guidance for historic buildings

Consultation with heritage bodies and authorities

Public and stakeholder engagement

Townscape Consultancy

Townscape and Visual Impact Assessments (TVIA)

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) / Environmental Statements (ES) chapters

Strategic urban design guidance